Firefighters have 75 percent containment of the 56-acre Sheep Fire in Huerfano County and said they expect to have 100 percent containment later Thursday.
The wildfire was first reported Monday afternoon, and was approximately 100 acres by Tuesday evening, but the fire was mapped with GPS units and the acres were adjusted to 60. The fire is burning through mixed conifer and pinion pine forests with all of the fire currently on private land.
Approximately 60 firefighters were assigned to the blaze. Two 20-person hand crews, two local fire engines, one helicopter and one local bulldozer were working the fire. The helicopter was expected to be released by Thursday afternoon. The other crews were to remain at the fire through Thursday and then be released on Friday.
Huerfano County Sheriff Newman planned to notify evacuees when they can return to the four homes that were threatened. The public, other than residents, are asked to remain clear of the fire area for firefighter and personal safety. The area was under a "red flag" fire warning Thursday, which means weather conditions are favorable for the rapid spread of any fire.
This Sheep Fire is located six miles southwest of the town of Gardner.
Before the fire can be considered secure, all of the smoldering trees and logs along the fire perimeter must be mopped up. These mop-up operations are expected to continue for several days.
Copyright 2006 by TheDenverChannel.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.